OTHER VOICES.

Let Braves Punish Rocker

February 02, 2000|By Bob Ryan, Boston Globe.

John Rocker should have to worry about only one set of judges and one jury. His offensive remarks are the concern of his own manager, coaches, and teammates. Strictly speaking, no one else in baseball matters. Rocker already is paying an appropriate price. He is a national frame of reference for ignorance. Commissioner Bud Selig has soared to great rhetorical heights in denouncing Rocker's regrettable declarations. "The terrible example is not what our great game is all about," thunders the commissioner, "and, in fact, is a profound breach of the social compact we hold in such high regard." Touching? Yes. But germane? No. Rocker is an embarrassment to all concerned, but, ultimately, he is Atlanta's embarrassment. Retribution is necessary, but trampling constitutional rights we hold dear is not the answer. Fear not. John Rocker's legitimate retribution will take place in the Atlanta locker room.